Lack of Snow May Derail the Iditarod

Iditarod Hampered by Lack of Snow -- For Full Story, Click Here

 



Farewell to Former First Dog Barney

 

 

Former First Dog Barney Bush Dies

 

 

 

Wags,

Whitney

Some Things To Remember In Cold Weather

 

Let us venture a look through our frosted windows with the eyes of a dog. The winter wonderland, though fun to play in, can also present countless hazards for our animals. Here are some things to take into account during winter weather.

1.      Did you know the rock salt and salt-based products we use to keep our walks clean and free of ice can present a health hazard to our dogs?

 

Rock salt and other salt-based ice melters contain sodium chloride or potassium chloride which can heat up to 175 degrees when exposed to water, ice, and low temperatures. Often these white pellets (crystals) sit on ice and snow surfaces for a long period before penetrating.

 

Pets—For dogs, in particular, exposure to salt-based ice melters can mean an unhealthy winter and unplanned trips to the veterinarian. The salts get frozen into the dogs paws and fur. When they are inside with higher temperatures, these salts can burn the skin causing ulcers and redness to tissue which can lead to bacterial infections. Dogs can also develop intestinal problems and inflammation of the stomach (gastritis) from licking the salt-based products off their paws.

- SafePaw.com

There are several ways to combat this threat. There is a product on the market called SafePaw, an ice melter that is non-toxic to humans and animals alike. 100% salt free, SafePaw is guaranteed safe for the environment, most surfaces, and plants. Although it is pricier than regular rock salt, SafePaw can be used less often. You can read more about SafePaw, and find a store locator at their website.

For those who may not be able to afford or find SafePaw, be sure to wipe your dog’s paws thoroughly with a clean towel every time they reenter the house. By walking on sidewalks, parking lots, roads, paws not only pick up the harmful chemicals found in ice melting salts, but also those found in car fluids such as antifreeze, oil, etc.

Booties may also be an option, especially for dogs that have little hair, are very young or elderly.

2.      Wherever you keep your dogs, make sure it is warm! Keeping dogs inside during the extreme cold is my personal preference, but even if a dog lives in the basement or in an enclosed building, remember that hard surfaces like cement, tiles, and even wood can be VERY cold. Make sure your dog has a warm, dry place to not only sleep, but get out and move around.

 

3.      Make sure that outdoor water bowls are free and clear of ice! Sometimes you will need to go out and chop the ice off the top several times a day.

 

4.      Ice and snow can form uncomfortable and painful knots in a dog’s coat. Be sure to keep up on your dog’s grooming throughout the winter months.

 

5.       As always, exercise common sense and good judgment. Keep your dog on his leash during walks, and never let them around frozen water ways. Be aware of what your dog can tolerate comfortably, the temperature, and their general wellbeing. If hypothermia or frostbite is expected, seek medical help immediately.

     

For more winter weather safety tips, go here.

Warm Wags,

        Whitney

 

Get Your 2013 Dog License

Dog Licensing. Yes, it is that time of year again already! If you are simply renewing your dog(s) license(s), you will probably get a reminder in the mail. If this is your first time buying a dog license, you will need to make the first step. Contact your local animal control agency to find out specific information on where to go if you want to pick up the license in person, any paperwork to bring, what the fee will be because there will be a fee, etc. Before you get your fur in a ball, consider what this fee (our local fee is $12.00 per dog) is going towards. Often times, this fee will help support the local animal shelter. Dogs are also required to have their rabies vaccine before the license will be issued. So keep up on those shots! Sometimes, there are discounts if your dog is spayed/neutered, if you are a Senior Citizen, etc. Just ask. Keep in mind that there is a deadline for you to purchase your license. If you are late, they will charge a penalty fee on top of the regular fee. Here are five reasons to get your annual dog licenses. Even though these reasons are taken from the San Francisco Animal Care and Control, they hold true across the board.

1. If your dog gets lost, a license tag on your dog's collar is the fastest way to find you when your dog is found. Even if your dog is microchipped, a license tag is immediately visible and doesn't require a scanning device to read it, like a microchip does.

2. Licensing, unlike microchipping, lets people know that your canine companion has received required vaccinations that protect your dog from rabies.

3. The fee you pay for your dog license and license renewal keeps your city's animal shelter going.

4. Your dog's license shows that you are a responsible dog caregiver. When you walk your dog or let your dog run in designated areas, people will notice the license on your dog's collar and know that you really care about your dog's welfare. Dogs without licenses carry a stigma of owner neglect.

5. It's the law.

'Nuff said.

They sent a little brochure with our licenses this year containing phone numbers and answers to frequently asked questions. On the back, there is a section reading "Bet You Didn't Know" that lists the most popular breeds in our county: Collie, Labrador Retriever, German Shepherd, Cocker Spaniel, Bassett, Coonhound, Chihuahua, Irish Setter, Sheltie, and Poodle.
Some of those surprised me! Do you know what the most popular breeds in your county are?

Wags,
Whitney

January Breed Spotlight – Shetland Sheepdog

Something I’ve planned on doing with this blog is highlighting a different breed of dog every month. The history, care, breed standard, and pictures and videos will be featured. Since January marks the two year anniversary of my beloved little Sheltie boy’s venture to doggy heaven, I thought it only fitting for the Shetland Sheepdog to be the first to appear as a Breed Spotlight.



Tam O'Shanter
April 1998 - January 2011

Breed: Shetland Sheepdog
Place of Origin: Shetland Islands
Group: Herding

History – Although many people think that Shetland Sheepdogs, often called “Shelties”, are miniature Collies, they are actually a breed of their own. There is no doubt that Collies, along with other herding dogs, played a huge role in forming the breed. Indicative of the name, Shetland Sheepdogs originated on the Shetland Islands. Although the English Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1909 as “Shetland Collies”, it was not until 1914 that breeders of true Collies helped to push for Shelties to be recognized as their own breed. The American Kennel Club registered the first Sheltie in 1911, “Lord Scott.” John Sherman, Jr. of New York acquired him from Shetland.

Purpose—As one might assume, the Shetland Sheepdog is often the right-hand partner of farmers of various kinds. From cows to sheep to chickens, even people (yes, a Sheltie will try to herd you, too!), the vocational purpose of the breed is innate to them. Although herding is a natural behavior to Shelties, shepherds and farmers will often spend months and years training and perfecting the work and bond of both dog and man. When done right, the relationship is truly a partnership and a beautiful performance of grace, trust, and obedience to watch.

Nowadays, the need for a herding companion has dwindled and Shelties have proven themselves worthy in many other respects. They excel as agility and obedience dogs. There are also sheep herding shows and competitions, and one can expect how they shine in their original purpose. They also make wonderful companion and therapy dogs, as well as loving pets and additions to families.

Personality—Shelties are loving, family oriented dogs. They are highly intelligent and easy to train. Although they are small enough to live in an apartment, their trademark high-pitched, sometimes persistent barking, can make for unhappy neighbors and displeased owners. Shelties can be shy of strangers, and may be a little “sneaky” at times. As with all popular breeds, Shelties have unfortunately been subjected to arbitrary breeding. This has lead to an influx of unstable temperaments and several health problems in the breed. When considering any dog, it is extremely important to not only match your lifestyle to the right breed, but research and select the right breeder.

Shelties are smart, there is no doubt, but they are also very sensitive. Training should start early, but they do not respond well to a harsh approach (what dog does?). Love and patience should be your constant companions when training any dog.

Health – The average lifespan of a Sheltie is 12 to 15 years. Although they can live active, healthy lives, they have several health concerns.

“Breed health concerns may include Collie eye anomaly, dermatomyositis, hemophilia, hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, hemorrhagic gastroenteritis, von Willebrand’s disease, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, carpal ligament weakening, polyarthritis, nasal cavity tumors, congenital deafness, entropion, distichiasis, corneal dystrophy, cataracts, cryptorchidism, testicular neoplasia, MDR-1 gene mutation, patent ductus arteriosus, progressive retinal atrophy and seizures. This breed is expecially sensitive to ivermectin and milbemycin.” - PetWave

As with any dog, it is important to stay current on vet check ups and shots, supply ample exercise, feed a nutritious dog food, and pay attention. Even when being a good parent, some things are unavoidable. Research, educate yourself, be responsible, and show a lot of love. You will be rewarded in return.

Look – Holding a close resemblance to the Collie, Sheltie’s heads are wedge-shaped. Their almond shaped eyes are alert and bright. Small ears are erect, but often “tipped” by way of gluing the ear tips down as puppies.

Shelties boast of grace and beauty. Their long, silky coats beg for back and belly scratches. Their lion-like mane is regal and distinct. Sheltie’s have two base colors: Black or Sable. Genes dictate what color combinations and markings they will have.

No surprise — Shelties need a lot of grooming—it’s best if they can be brushed every day. They are especially prone to getting matted knots around their ears, and below their armpits, though Sheltie’s have a plethora of opportunity for tangles in their abundant coats. Below is a chart depicting Sheltie coat colors.

Full grown, Shelties are generally between 13 and 16 inches at the shoulders, and generally weigh between 14 and 25 pounds.

Conclusion – In closing, Shelties are very dear to my heart. They are certainly in a class all their own. Big hearts in compact bodies, given the right home, they make a wonderful addition to a loving family.

Sources – AKC, PetWave

Videos – Here are two videos by Animal Planet giving a short rundown on Shetland Sheepdogs: "Breed All About It" and "Dogs 101." Long before "Dogs 101" made its way to Animal Planet, its predecessor "Breed All About It" was there. I loved watching and learning about different dog breeds.

Breed All About It

Dogs 101

Pictures Below – From PetWave

 



 

















Wags,
Whitney

Starting the Year Out with Tugs on the Heart Strings

If you're like me, even when you know to avoid the headlines that promise to tear at your heart, you almost always click on the stories concerning animals that stream across the middle of Yahoo!'s homepage (Yes, I may be one of the few people left in the world that still uses Yahoo! instead of Google).

I first read/watched Fiona's story last year, and it has remained with me every since. After creating this blog, I knew I wanted to share it. The people who perform animal rescues are truly heroes. Grab a couple tissues before proceeding.

Blind Rescue Dog Found in Trash Gets Her Sight Back

 

By Webvet  | Animal Nation – Tue, Mar 27, 2012 10:05 AM EDT

 

An abandoned dog -- found sick, blind and flea-infested -- has gotten her sight back. Eldad Hargar and his wife, Audrey, the founders of Hope For Paws, a Los Angeles-based animal rescue organization that takes in abused and neglected animals, took in the pup, Fiona, last year and launched a fundraising campaign on her behalf.

"She was just so defeated," said Eldad. "Blind, filthy, everything was going against her. There seemed to be no hope there."

The couple filmed her rescue, which has since gone viral -- prompting over $4,000 in donations that allowed her to have eye surgery which has partially restored her vision.

"We're so happy that people are watching this and learning," Eldad Hagar said. "We want people to react to this. Next time you see an animal on the street, call someone or do something. If you can't help, then get help."




Check out Fiona's amazing video!

 

Here's an update taken from another Yahoo! News story...

 

"Fiona has since been adopted and her rescue video has become something of a hit on the Web. Here's another video chronicling her recovery. This video was taken before she was adopted and includes scenes of Fiona wearing an unbearably adorable Santa hat.

UPDATE: Hope for Paws just sent us a new video update on Fiona, showing her at play with some of new companions. If the above video made you cry, smile then cry again -- this one is guaranteed to simply put a smile on your face."

Finoa's New Home

Warmest Wags for a Happy New Year,
Whitney
 

Most Popular Puppy Names of 2012



Esme, 11 weeks

I thought this would be fun to share as 2012 comes to a close. Although these are supposed to be the ten most popular puppy names of the year according to Shine from Yahoo!, I think they've actually been popular for... well, forever.

 

 

 

 

Top 10 Puppy Names of 2012

 

After examining the names of more than 1.25 million puppies born in 2012 from Vetstreet's database, we came up with the year's top pet names.

No.1 - Female: Bella, Male: Max

No. 2 - Female: Daisy, Male: Buddy

No. 3 - Female: Lucy, Male: Charlie

No. 4 - Female: Molly, Male: Rocky

No. 5 - Female: Lola, Male: Cooper

No. 6 - Female: Sophie, Male: Bear

No. 7 - Female: Sadie, Male: Bentley

No. 8 - Female: Chloe, Male: Duke

No. 9 - Female: Coco, Male: Jack

 

No. 10 - Female: Maggie, Male: Toby


That's it, folks. Give your Duke a pat on the head, or Molly a good belly rub. Have a blessed and happy New Year.

Wags,
Whitney

Snow Fun

We have had more snow in the last week than we had all winter last year, and have seen more snow in the last week than we've seen in the last eight years (we only moved back to Ohio from Louisiana in 2011). For all the inconveniences that come along with winter weather, (i.e., getting stuck in the snow, shoveling, breaking out the hot water bottle for my back, walking to work, taking dogs out in all kinds of weather, the heating bills, etc.), it has been a lot of fun! One of us has enjoyed it in particular...

On top of the four or so inches of snow we got a few days ago, we got another five or six inches last night. All of the tracks in the backyard had been covered over and it was a blank slate; inviting.

Today, Esme is 22 weeks old. It has been a sort of project of mine to take pictures of her every week, chronicling her growth. They will be fun to look back on when she weighs 40 plus pounds, and I'm sure they will also become very sentimental memories.

After lunch today, we took to the fresh snow. I can't quite get over how very at home-- how natural-- Esme is in the snow. She'd never seen the stuff before the last couple weeks, yet she ran like the sled dogs of her ancestors; free, happy, tireless. The snow crunched under her insulated paws as she tore around the yard, scooping up snow in her mouth, catching the mounds I kicked her way, and having a highly enjoyable romp in general.

After our hands had turned to ice, and our camera was exhausted, we all returned to the house to lay our gloves over a vent, and to wait for our faces to regain feeling.

The smooth texture of the snow's surface is now split and rumpled, complete evidence of an afternoon well spent.

 

 

 

Snow-dusted wags,

Whitney

The Truth About Poinsettias

We all recognize the festive flower that lends itself as much to Christmas as Holly or pine trees. Like any good parent, mama's and daddy's to furry children worry about their animal's health and safety as well. We've all pondered (read: fretted) over the question: Are Poinsettia's toxic to our dogs?

The truth about Poinsettias according to the ASPCA...

 

Poinsettia

Scientific Name:

Euphorbia pulcherrima

 

 
Family:

Euphorbiaceae

 

  

Toxicity:

Toxic to Dogs, Toxic to Cats

 

Toxic Principles:

 

Irritant Sap (latex)

 

Clinical Signs:

 

Irritating to the mouth and stomach, sometimes causing vomiting, but generally over-rated in toxicity.


If your pet ingested this plant, contact your local veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435.*

* A $65 consultation fee may apply. 

 

I always think that you can never be too careful where your dog's wellbeing is concerned. If you have any doubts, don't let your dog within sight of it. Although some dogs would never dream of chewing on the delicate petals of a flower (toxic or otherwise), you can never tell if or when Rover will suddenly get a taste for your prized potted plants.

Don't forget to use the resources at your disposal, such as consulting your veterinarian, or reading books on the subject written and researched by knowledgable professionals.

Just in case you thought you were off the hook because you've re-gifted those Poinsettias all these years doesn't mean you can pop Spot a cookie. Not a human cookie anyway. Here is another list comprised by the ASPCA of "people foods" to avoid giving your dog.

People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets

Chocolate, Macadamia nuts, avocados…these foods may sound delicious to you, but they’re actually quite dangerous for our animal companions. Our nutrition experts have put together a handy list of the top toxic people foods to avoid feeding your pet. As always, if you suspect your pet has eaten any of the following foods, please note the amount ingested and contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435. 
 

Chocolate, Coffee, Caffeine 

These products all contain substances called methylxanthines, which are found in cacao seeds, the fruit of the plant used to make coffee and in the nuts of an extract used in some sodas. When ingested by pets, methylxanthines can cause vomiting and diarrhea, panting, excessive thirst and urination, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures and even death. Note that darker chocolate is more dangerous than milk chocolate. White chocolate has the lowest level of methylxanthines, while baking chocolate contains the highest.
 

Alcohol

Alcoholic beverages and food products containing alcohol can cause vomiting, diarrhea, decreased coordination, central nervous system depression, difficulty breathing, tremors, abnormal blood acidity, coma and even death.

Avocado

The leaves, fruit, seeds and bark of avocados contain Persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. Birds and rodents are especially sensitive to avocado poisoning, and can develop congestion, difficulty breathing and fluid accumulation around the heart. Some ingestions may even be fatal.

Macadamia Nuts

Macadamia nuts are commonly used in many cookies and candies. However, they can cause problems for your canine companion. These nuts have caused weakness, depression, vomiting, tremors and hyperthermia in dogs. Signs usually appear within 12 hours of ingestion and last approximately 12 to 48 hours.

Grapes & Raisins

Although the toxic substance within grapes and raisins is unknown, these fruits can cause kidney failure. In pets who already have certain health problems, signs may be more dramatic.

Yeast Dough

Yeast dough can rise and cause gas to accumulate in your pet’s digestive system. This can be painful and can cause the stomach or intestines to rupture. Because the risk diminishes after the dough is cooked and the yeast has fully risen, pets can have small bits of bread as treats. However, these treats should not constitute more than 5 percent to 10 percent of your pet’s daily caloric intake.   
 

Raw/Undercooked Meat, Eggs and Bones

Raw meat and raw eggs can contain bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli that can be harmful to pets. In addition, raw eggs contain an enzyme called avidin that decreases the absorption of biotin (a B vitamin), which can lead to skin and coat problems. Feeding your pet raw bones may seem like a natural and healthy option that might occur if your pet lived in the wild. However, this can be very dangerous for a domestic pet, who might choke on bones, or sustain a grave injury should the bone splinter and become lodged in or puncture your pet’s digestive tract.

Xylitol

Xylitol is used as a sweetener in many products, including gum, candy, baked goods and toothpaste. It can cause insulin release in most species, which can lead to liver failure. The increase in insulin leads to hypoglycemia (lowered sugar levels). Initial signs of toxicosis include vomiting, lethargy and loss of coordination. Signs can progress to recumbancy and seizures. Elevated liver enzymes and liver failure can be seen within a few days.    
 

Onions, Garlic, Chives

These vegetables and herbs can cause gastrointestinal irritation and could lead to red blood cell damage. Although cats are more susceptible, dogs are also at risk if a large enough amount is consumed. Toxicity is normally diagnosed through history, clinical signs and microscopic confirmation of Heinz bodies. An occasional low dose, such as what might be found in pet foods or treats, likely will not cause a problem, but we recommend that you do NOT give your pets large quantities of these foods.

Milk

Because pets do not possess significant amounts of lactase (the enzyme that breaks down lactose in milk), milk and other milk-based products cause them diarrhea or other digestive upset. 
 

Salt

Large amounts of salt can produce excessive thirst and urination, or even sodium ion poisoning in pets. Signs that your pet may have eaten too many salty foods include vomiting, diarrhea, depression, tremors, elevated body temperature, seizures and even death. In other words, keep those salty chips to yourself! 
 

 

As always, warmest wags to you and yours,

Whitney

A Christmas Tail

Image by Norman Rockwell

Christmas is flying in on the heels of the recent winter weather system, otherwise known as snow. Many are busy finding those last minute deals, tying bows around shiny wrapping paper, and baking more goodies than ought to be allowed.

I know there will be those popcorn-strung trees out there with carefully set boxes under them just before the children race downstairs Christmas morning. Boxes whose loose-fitting tops are bobbing to and fro like the lid of a pot of boiling water. Boxes with puppies or kittens in them, the parents standing to the side, saying to their bright-eyed children, “Wait. Open this one first.”

I am not against bringing a new puppy or dog home for Christmas. I am against the box part. No, if Christmas happens to naturally fall as the time of year in which you have finally come to a decision on the perfect dog breed for your family and lifestyle; contacted and researched reputable breeders until you can recite every breeder within 200 miles; scoured your local animal shelter, inquiring as to which canine pal would fill your home with laughter and love for years to come; dog-eared every book you could find about health, socializing, training, etc.; talked to the entire family and come to a unanimous conclusion on individual responsibilities; picked the local vet’s brain until they know you by name when you enter, even though you do not yet even own a dog; puppy-proofed your home from top to bottom… Then, and only then, is bringing a puppy or dog home for Christmas acceptable.

Image by Norman Rockwell

Last week, I heard a "tail" that had me inwardly grimacing in knowledgeable foresight. A lady’s adult son (who lives with the mother) had a girlfriend. This girlfriend surprised this son with a puppy for Christmas, without asking any of the four people living in the home how they felt about it. A German Shepherd, the lady thought. “Four weeks old, or something. Just a little pup.” (If you are thinking puppy mill already, you are not alone). No one is home during the day to take care of this puppy: see to his emotional needs as he is just entering a new environment, potty needs, food needs, or wellbeing. No puppy-proofing. But, this girlfriend was able to attain a small indoor pen of sorts. They put newspaper down for the puppy’s potty needs during the day. I don’t know what the food/water regime was to be. This lady went on to say that it is a heartbreak when something happens to them (dogs), as if she half expects something to. This family lives out in the country, but does not have a fenced area. She spoke of leaving the dog outside, had it been spring instead of winter. Do they know how fast a dog can travel? Can reach a highway? Have they considered puppy shots? Safety of any kind? No. And it was not entirely their fault. Someone “surprised” them with this little, helpless life who had no say in who he went to, how his life was to turn out.

Image by Norman Rockwell

Giving an animal of any kind as a present is never a good idea (unless you have done the responsible pet owner things listed in the third paragraph). There are so many different paths—reasons—I say this. The cute wears off fast and real life begins. Many of these charming little Christmas puppies will end up in a cage at the animal shelter within a week. It is never fair to decide a puppy’s or dog’s fate based solely on the momentary reaction you hope to achieve from members of your household who do not understand, desire, or plan to execute any of the day to day duties after the initial “cute” fades away. And believe me, it fades fast.

 

Consider this year, buying a book about how to care for puppies and dogs as the best present to put under the tree as a way of broaching the ever exciting subject of bringing home not just a puppy or dog, but a very real commitment—a member of the family.

 

Warmest Wags,
Whitney

Wipe Your Paws

Woof, woof, and welcome to Sixth Day Dogs!

As an animal enthusiast, trainer-in-training, and proud dog momma, creating a blog about this beloved species seemed like a no brainer.

Along with a lot of photos and news about my own brood, I want to help in the efforts to raise awareness, share my own experiences, offer insights and research, and in general, present a place of camaraderie among dog lovers.

Please bear with me as this blog is new and will be under construction for a little while.

Wipe your paws and settle in for a visit with the furry member of your family.

Lots of wags,
Whitney